Rocky Dawuni, Ghana’s most nominated artist at the Grammys with four nods, told Joy Prime’s Prime Time that his career is driven by a desire to inspire connection, unity and positive change, rather than win awards.
The four‑time Grammy nominee first earned a nomination in 2015 for his album Branches of The Same Tree in the Best Reggae Album category. He followed that with nominations in 2021/22 for Voice of Bunbon Vol. 1 (Best Global Music Album), 2023 for the single Never Bow Down (Best Global Music Performance) and most recently in 2025 for the uplifting track Rise (Best Global Music Performance), competing against artists such as Angélique Kidjo and Jacob Collier.
In the interview, hosted by George Quaye, Dawuni stressed that while the nominations were humbling, they had never been his primary motivation. “I’m a proud African, and I make sure the identity of my roots is always reflected in my music,” he said, underscoring his Afro‑Roots sound that blends reggae, Afrobeat, highlife and soul.
Beyond music, the artist is a UN Goodwill Ambassador and cultural ambassador for Ghana. Last year he was one of five creatives honoured with diplomatic passports by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their global contributions to the country’s image.
Dawuni also highlighted the need for stronger structural support for Ghana’s creative arts industry and urged young artists to focus on message and originality rather than trends. He called for national unity and prayer, aligning with the Monthly Intercessory Prayers for Ghana event scheduled for October.
His appearances on platforms such as CARIFESTA XV in Barbados were described as a “homecoming, reconnection and spiritual bonding,” illustrating his commitment to Pan‑African solidarity.
As the artist continues to raise Ghana’s flag high, he remains a testament to how conscious music can break international barriers and bring people together.
